What do young people in Palestine think about stray dogs, and how can science, awareness and compassion help communities address this complex issue?
Thanks to the continuous commitment and coordination of Hala Montaser Mahmoud, OIPA’s Representative in Palestine, OIPA Palestine’s volunteer teams are carrying out awareness initiatives aimed at promoting a more informed, humane and responsible approach to stray dog management.
As part of these efforts, the volunteers recently visited An-Najah National University and Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie in Tulkarm, engaging directly with students and opening a constructive conversation about one of the most important animal welfare challenges affecting local communities.
During the initiative, volunteers conducted in-depth interviews with students from both universities to better understand their perceptions, concerns and personal experiences regarding stray dogs.
These conversations offered valuable insight into how the issue is viewed by younger generations and highlighted the importance of providing accurate and reliable information to overcome fear, prejudice and common misconceptions.
The volunteers did not simply collect opinions. They also shared medical, veterinary and scientific information about humane and effective approaches to managing stray dog populations, highlighting the importance of prevention, responsible pet ownership, vaccination, sterilisation and cooperation between communities, institutions and professionals.
By bringing the discussion directly onto university campuses, OIPA Palestine created a space where students could ask questions, express their concerns and learn more about solutions that protect animal welfare while also safeguarding public health.
As part of the initiative, the team also conducted an in-depth interview with specialist Dr Nemer Khraim, who shared his professional perspective on the issue and explained how medical and scientific approaches can contribute to responsible, humane and sustainable solutions.
The interview will support OIPA Palestine’s online awareness activities, allowing the team to reach a wider audience and promote a more informed, balanced and constructive public debate.
The initiative was coordinated in the field by Mai, Field Initiatives Coordinator for OIPA Palestine, together with Hamza Al-Qub, Diaa, Hamada, Dr. Hazem, and a dedicated group of volunteers whose commitment and participation made the activities possible.
Their collective work demonstrates how young people, volunteers, universities and professionals can become powerful agents of change.
Through dialogue, education and direct community engagement, OIPA Palestine is helping to replace misinformation with knowledge and fear with a deeper understanding of animals.
Because meaningful change begins with awareness and every informed voice can help build a safer and more compassionate future for both people and animals.
